A Sweet Smell of Roses

Written by Angela Johnson · Illustrated by Eric Velasquez

Two girls join a historic march, changing history forever.

5.0/7 Bookroo expert·4.3/5 Goodreads · 844 ratings

32 pages· 380 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud· AD480L

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Bookroo's summary

In a city buzzing with anticipation, two young sisters, Minnie and her sibling, defy the norm and sneak out to join a pivotal freedom march. As they weave through the streets, the air filled with the scent of roses, they find themselves amidst a sea of determined faces, listening to the powerful words of Dr. Martin Luther King. Their journey is a testament to the courage of youth and their vital role in the Civil Rights movement. Will their small steps contribute to a larger change, or will they be swept away by the tides of history?

From the publisher

Minnie and her sister hear about a freedom march and leave their home to go to their city’s downtown area where they listen to Dr. Martin Luther King and join the march, all the while smelling roses.

At a glance

Format: Paperback
Pages: 32
Words: 380
Reading age: 5–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: AD480L

Themes & topics

Books about activism Books about civil rights movement Books about Martin Luther King, Jr.Books about 20th century Books about sisters

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.0

out of 7

5.0

“Angela Johnson and Eric Valesquez do a great job of relaying the huge spectrum of emotions that existed through the civil rights movement in a positive way while keeping the feeling true. Through very real illustrations and immaculate word selection, the readers get a feel for what it was like to be a kid at such a trying time in our history. It's a very insightful story that is sure to peak the curiosity of the young readers, leading to great opportunities to learn more about unity and kindness.”

The Fun Uncle

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The author